Already missing several regular forwards and some influential backs Wigan were further depleted by the late withdrawal of star back Sam Carleton through illness. Evergreen Lee Scully came into a much-changed lineup.

The game started badly for the home side with the wet conditions not suited to Wigan’s open running rugby style. A handling error led to an attacking scrum for Trafford from which they muscled over for the opening score. Duly converted after 7 mins. This was to set the pattern for much of the game with the bigger Trafford forwards clearly on top in the set scrums. Wigan quickly replied to level with MotM Butler racing away for his first try converted by Fillingham. The home side managed to be on the wrong side of several refereeing decisions in the first quarter, one of which saw Trafford force a line out 5m from the try line which they easily rumbled over to retake the lead 7-12.

After 25 mins, scintillating interplay involving all of the backs and young hooker Halley ended with a trademark kick and chase try by the prolific Will Morgan. Followed almost immediately by Butler’s second try ending a move starting deep in the Wigan 22. Fillingham converted for a 19-12 half time lead.

As darkness descended on the Valley the second half turned into a scrappy affair with Trafford continuing to dominate the scrums and Wigan trying to play an expansive game from all over the pitch. Trafford again elected a scrum after being awarded another penalty and their no8 managed to get over for a try, converted to level the scores 19-19.

Tom Carter went close for Wigan before Butler completed his hat trick by again outpacing the whole of the Trafford defence to take Wigan into the closing stages 5pts to the good.

It looked as though the home side would hang on but following 4 successive penalties Trafford again elected to scrum and scored again from close range. The conversion went agonisingly close, but was wide. This referee blew the final whistle 24-24. Wigan played all the rugby but couldn’t quite manage a victory.

3 league points is some reward for both teams.

A trip to resurgent Broughton Park next week.

With thanks to Andrew ( Cyril ) Knowles for the match report